The Breaking Bad series was an immense hit, establishing a special place in the television world. Due to its success, Aaron Paul’s role as Jesse Pinkman catapulted to fame, opening doors for a successful career going forward.
However, rather than choosing a typical path to secure leading-man roles in blockbuster movies, he chose a pathway less traveled. He decided to pursue independent filmmaking, showcasing a kind of courage that many would be terrified of.
Aaron Paul Made a Bold Career Confession Post-Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad has been a significant milestone for Aaron Paul‘s career whose portrayal of Jesse Pinkman impressed many, earning him critical acclaim and accolades.
His character has equally complemented Bryan Cranston‘s Walter White role with his own vulnerability, guilt, and moral conflict.
In an interview with The Guardian in 2019, the actor talked about how he was presented with numerous opportunities for leading roles in big-budget films.
But, the actor made a bold career move to work in independent films that align more closely with his artistic vision. He shared,
There are roles I jumped on to after Breaking Bad, just to try to move the needle in one direction or another. I get sent a lot of leading-man stuff and it doesn’t excite me. My heart is in gritty, independent filmmaking.
It is quite a ballsy confession for an actor as he allowed himself to pursue more nuanced performances, instead of chasing high-profile commercial projects.
Due to his artistic vision, he expanded his portfolio with quality projects that reflect his dedication to independent cinema.
Aaron Paul’s Projects Post-Breaking Bad Fame
After the end of the AMC series which ran for five seasons before concluding in 2013, Paul took some bold and unconventional roles, that further elevated his portfolio.
One such project is Need for Speed (2014), which although a commercial project starring the likes of Michael Keaton, couldn’t impress critics at all. However, the 45-year-old actor’s work was critically applauded, demonstrating his range as an actor.
Even his 2015 movie, Eye In The Sky is one such project where he takes on a backseat to play a supporting role which is integral to the narrative. His portrayal brings a ground performance that can convince the viewers that he doesn’t need to be in the limelight to enjoy it.
He also co-produced and starred in The Path (2016-2018), a TV series about a religious cult that demanded a complex narrative. Due to this drama, the actor took a major departure from traditional leading-man roles.
Running for three seasons, the actor played the central role of Eddie Lane in the series, who became deeply involved in the fictional Meyerism movement.
The actor has looked back to reprise his Pinkman role in a sequel film, El Camino which was released as a Netflix original. He is set to be back in an upcoming sci-fi horror project, Ash starring Eiza González in the leading role.
Meanwhile, one can watch his Breaking Bad performance on Netflix.
